I have to agree with Bec. There is a lot said about what a 'Carer' should do in order to assist the 'Sufferer' but the 'Sufferer' has, just as equally, a responsibility the relationship.

Before I go on I want to make it clear that at this time I am only discussing intimate adult relationships.........

It has been said here that when entering into a relationship a potential carer needs to understand a PTSD sufferer and decide whether they can accept what the consequences of living with someone who is ill is about. True but, I strongly believe, a PTSD suffer entering into a relationship is also a consenting adult and should also assess whether they can realistically contribute to a relationship. There are two people involved in a relationship, not just one and there has to be compromise and acceptance both ways. Both parties have to be fair to the relationship.

Personally, I can accept PTSD as an illness and am willing to do what it takes as a 'Carer' but I will not accept abuse whether it be direct or projected when PTSD is used as an excuse. That is the 'Sufferer's' responsibility to the relationship....to deal with their illness. Pull away sure, have some time out, be negative, shut the world out for a little while but it is not right if a 'Sufferer' inflicts cruelness and abuse on a 'Carer', who is supposedly someone they love, and believe it is acceptable.

In my world there is a big difference between being ill/negative (PTSD) and being abusive.